Among the publicans a widespread interest was created. Their hearts were drawn toward the divine Teacher. In the joy of his new discipleship, Matthew longed to bring his former associates to Jesus. Accordingly 274 he made a feast at his own house, and called together his relatives and friends. Not only were publicans included, but many others who were of doubtful reputation, and were proscribed by their more scrupulous neighbors.

Mattæus' kald til at være en af Jesu disciple vakte stor harme. At en from lærer kunne vælge en tolder til at være en af sine nærmeste hjælpere var en krænkelse af de religiøse, sociale og nationale skikke. Ved at påkalde folkets fordomme håbede farisæerne at vende folkestemningen mod Jesus.